Standard Guide for Measuring and Reporting Friction Coefficients

Abstract

5.1 In this guide, factors that shall be considered in conducting a valid test for the determination of the coefficient of friction of a tribosystem are covered, and the use of a standard reporting format for friction data is encouraged. 5.2 The factors that are important for a valid test may not be obvious to non-tribologists, and the friction tests referenced will assist in selecting the apparatus and test technique that is most appropriate to simulate a tribosystem of interest. 5.3 The tribology literature is replete with friction data that cannot readily be used by others because specifics are not presented on the tribosystem that was used to develop the data. The overall goal of this guide is to provide a reporting format that will enable computer databases to be readily established. These databases can be searched for material couples and tribosystems of interest. Their use will significantly reduce the need for each laboratory to do its own testing. Sufficient information on test conditions will be available to determine applicability of the friction data to the engineer's specific needs.